Air purification

Plants naturally release oxygen and reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the air. This makes the air cleaner and easier to breathe. Indoor houseplants can even reduce certain pollutants and chemicals like formaldehyde. The air purifying and filtering properties of indoor plants ultimately foster a healthier and happier working and living environment.

Improve Air Quality

In addition to purifying the air and removing chemicals, plants improve the quality of the air around you, making it easier to breathe and improve your health.

Indoor houseplants are natural humidifiers and release moisture into the air which can help to alleviate dry skin, dry sinuses, as well as reduce static in the air.

Dry sinuses can cause both sore throats and sinus infections and the additional moisture in the air and keep humidity levels more consistent than a machine that needs maintenance and cleaning.

Check out NASA’s list of approved plants to improve our air quality here.

Improved Mood and Mental Health

Something I had learned especially during lockdown was the effect of plants on mood and overall mental health. Many studies have shown that patients with live plants in their rooms recover more quickly.

Plants can also help give us a sense of purpose. A plant needs care and attention. The physical act of caring for plants can help to reduce feelings of depression and loneliness.

Because of the increase in oxygen, studies have also shown plants can reduce stress and anxiety as well as increase productivity. Plants can reduce background noise by absorbing or reflecting loud noises, making it easier to concentrate.

Improved Sleep

Insomnia is directly related to stress and anxiety. We all know this! Having plants present can create a more calming environment which can help you relax and therefore get a better night’s sleep.

Some plants even continue to release oxygen even when not in photosynthesis which can increase your sleep as well.

Air Freshener

One of the coolest things about plants is their ability to make your home smell better. Remember how we talked about plants removing chemicals from the air? Removing some of those chemicals can actually improve the smell in your house!

Plants are so much more than just decor or something that needs watering from time to time. They provide so many benefits to improve our health.